Atypical Teratoid/ Rhabdoid Tumor (AT/RT) is a rare central nervous system tumor of the brain and spinal cord, which may also originate in other organs and tissues. It usually occurs in children younger than three years of age, although it can occur in older children and adults. About half of these tumors form in the cerebellum or brain stem. Approximately 90% of AT/RTs are caused by genetic mutations in the INI1 gene.

Physical findings and Symptoms: Children with AT/RT may present with complaints of morning headache or headache that goes away after vomiting; unusual sleepiness or change in activity level; loss of balance, lack of coordination, or trouble walking; and increased head size in infants.

ICD-9: 191.00

ONSET AND PROGRESSION

AT/RTs usually occur in children younger than three years of age, although it can occur in older children and adults. Symptoms of AT/RTs may develop quickly and progress over a period of days or weeks with symptoms varying depending on the age of the child and the location of the tumor. Children presenting with AT/RT before the age of 3 years have a poor prognosis. The prognosis is also based on residual tumor remaining after surgery, and whether the cancer has spread (metastasized) to other parts of the central nervous system or rest of the body such as kidney.

TREATMENT

There is no standard staging system for central nervous system atypical teratoid/ rhabdoid tumor. This tumor is classified as newly diagnosed or recurrent. Treatment depends on the age of the child and extent of the cancer, and may include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or high-dose chemotherapy with stem cell transplant. Long-term survival is possible in adults receiving multimodal therapy.

SUGGESTED PROGRAMMATIC ASSESSMENT*

Suggested MER for evaluation:

Clinical history and examination that describes the diagnostic features of the impairment.

Pathology report.

Operative reports.

MRI/ CT scans, bone scans, ultrasound.

Results of bone marrow biopsy or lumbar puncture (spinal tap).

Suggested Listings for Evaluation:

DETERMINATION

LISTING

REMARKS

Meets Listing

13.13A

113.13

Listing level severity must be documented. Meets 113.13 in children when tumor involves the brainstem, cerebellum, or spinal cord. Evaluate under the appropriate adult listing when AT/RT originates in locations besides the central nervous system, such as in the neck (13.02D), mediastinum (13.15B1), liver (13.19), and kidney (13.21B).

Equals Listing

* Adjudicators may, at their discretion, use the Medical Evidence of Record or Listings suggested to evaluate the claim. However, the decision to allow or deny the claim rests with the adjudicator.